â€™08 Advent Calendar, Day 7

Considered a symbol of resurrection in Christianity (via the ancient Greeks’ myth of Persephone), and a symbol of fertility in Judaism, the pomegranate has a long and luscious history. It’s closely tied to the Christmas season and in supply only briefly, so be sure to try some of the tart, juicy seeds while you still can.

While pomegranates are practically leaping into your grocery cart, please, please, please make this! You’ll want to name your kid after me, or more likely, after Ms. Kennedy. And hey, the recipe comes with Mighty Girl Maggie Mason’s seal of approval, so you know it’s good.

In a molcajete or food processor, grind onion, chiles, and salt into a rough paste. Gradually add the avocado, coarsely mashing it (you’ll want it to be chunky). Stir in the lime juice. Fold in the pear, grapes, and 1/2 cup of the pomegranate seeds. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds over the guacamole and serve.

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I learned at my Obama election party that when pomegranate seeds are crushed into my rental carpet that Windex is an instant and fantastic stain remover, even two days after the fact! Just a cleanliness tip.